The two-foot long snake was found in a fence in a garden in Uxbridge
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The RSPCA was called to rescue a stray snake found tucked in the gap of a garden fence yesterday (1 August). The two-foot long corn snake is believed to be an escaped pet and was found by a householder in Arklay Close late on Wednesday night.
She contacted the RSPCA and Animal Collection Officer Natasha Clarke went along to help. Natasha said: “The corn snake had made his way into the garden and was in a tight gap under the fence when I got there. He was much happier once I managed to get him out and in a carrier and I took him to RSPCA Putney animal hospital to be checked over.
“We’re not sure who owns this corn snake but he is in good condition so could have escaped from his home in the neighbourhood. Anyone who has any information about this snake or where he might have come from can leave a message for me on our inspector’s appeal line number by calling 0300 123 8018.”
Natasha added: “The RSPCA rescues more snakes over the summer months. It is possible that this could be due to snakes having more opportunity to escape, if owners take them outside to take advantage of the natural sunlight.
“It is good for reptiles to be allowed the opportunity for natural sunlight, however we would urge owners to ensure that their reptile is kept secure when doing so, as reptiles can warm up and become very quick movers on a sunny day!
“It is possible to microchip snakes and we would recommend that owners ask their exotics vet to do this, so that snakes can be easily reunited if lost and found.”
Snakes are talented escape artists and will take the opportunity of a gap in an enclosure door, or a loose-fitting lid, so the RSPCA advises owners to ensure vivariums are kept secure (and locked if necessary) to prevent accidental escape. The charity’s officers have been called to snakes who have been found in lots of unusual places including in a vacuum cleaner, in an oven and in a kitchen drawer!
The charity has also been dealing with the problem of exotic animals being abandoned, found stray or neglected. In 2018, RSPCA officers rescued more than 4,000 exotic animals, including more than 500 snakes.
It costs the RSPCA nearly £30,000 to run an animal centre, providing vet care, food, toys and comfort to needy animals, every month. To help the RSPCA continue to rescue animals like Rolo and Mia please visit www.rspca.org.uk/summercrisis.
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August 8, 2019
